NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State football coach Pete Adrian announced on Thursday that junior wide receiver Chris Bell (Norfolk, Va.) has decided to forgo his senior season of eligibility and declare for the 2010 NFL Draft.

“We wish Chris the best of luck with his professional career,” Adrian said. “We were happy to have him play here at NSU and we look forward to seeing him succeed at the next level.”

Bell (6-3, 210) caught 51 passes for 958 yards and 13 touchdowns last season en route to first-team All-MEAC honors. The Penn State transfer led the MEAC and ranked 13th nationally in receiving yards per game (87.1). Bell’s 958 yards and 13 touchdowns are the third-best single-season marks in school history.

“I am excited to take the next step in my football career,” Bell said. “I appreciate everything the people at NSU have done for me. I wish the program luck, and I’ll continue to “Behold the Green & Gold.”